News
Old Gaffers Assocation celebrating Jubilee in 2013
17 January 2012
The Old Gaffers Association is in the process of organising events in the UK and throughout the world for the 50th Anniversary of promoting Gaff Rigged and Traditional Boat Sailing.
In the late 1950's the only gaff rigged craft sailing British waters were old, some were yachts,but many were converted work boats.It was a cheap way to get afloat and enjoy the pleasures of sailing.Bermuda rig (a type of sail plan) had become so dominate that yacht clubs no longer allowed gaff rigged craft into their races. There were various Local sailing clubs with Gaff rigged Boats which led to the founding of the OGA in 1963.
The East Coast race which led to the to the founding of the Old Gaffers Association was sailed on 20th July 1963 and at the prize giving at the Little Ship Club in Maldon on September 14th 1963.
From this, other groups formed in the North West, Devon, Scotland, Bristol Channel and the North East followed by Northern Ireland ,Conwy and Dublin. There are now contacts and affiliations in Europe, Australia , Canada ,USA and New Zealand.
Celebrations that are already lined up include:
Round Britain Challenge: this aims to get as many OGA boats as possible sailing all round the British coast. If you are thinking about taking part in any way we need you to complete the 'Expression of Interest' form . There is now an Itinerary and main 'Ports and Events' page - www.oga50.org
Cowes festival event: plans are afoot to welcome those Gaffers who have sailed around Britain and many others from France and Holland. There will be a big parade of sail and great racing. Ashore there will be much to entertain,including parties and traditional craft. Further details will be announced shortly and posted on the website - www.orga50.org
Relay event: if you are interested in sailing a leg of the Relay going round Great Britain, please complete the form on their website to give some idea of how many Boats and what Ports and possible dates of departure are included - www.oga50.org
National Historic Ships UK is working with the OGA and other partners to try and secure funding for the regeneration of traditional maritime skills as part of their 50th programme.
